Book Review: If You Could Live Anywhere by Melody Warnick

 

Melody Warnick’s book, If You Could Live Anywhere: The Surprising Importance of Place in a Work-from-Anywhere World, is a fascinating read for anyone thinking about where they truly want to live. In today’s world, where remote work is more common than ever, people have more freedom to choose where they live based on what matters most to them. Warnick explores how to make the best decision about where to settle down by looking at different factors that make a place feel like home.

Three Key Insights from the Book

One of the most interesting ideas in this book is that place matters more than we often realize. Many people focus only on jobs or family when choosing where to live, but Warnick explains that the environment we live in shapes our happiness, productivity, and even our health. She encourages readers to think about what kind of setting truly fits their lifestyle, whether it’s a big city, a small town, or somewhere in between.

Another important takeaway is that feeling at home in a place isn’t just about the location—it’s about getting involved. Warnick emphasizes that people who actively engage in their communities tend to be happier where they live. Whether it’s joining a local club, volunteering, or simply making an effort to get to know neighbors, building connections can make any place feel more like home.

A third key lesson from the book is that there’s no perfect place. Many people spend time searching for the "ideal" city or town, but Warnick shows that every location has its pros and cons. Instead of waiting for the perfect place to appear, she suggests that people focus on making wherever they are a better fit for them. This could mean finding a new hobby, exploring local parks and businesses, or even just changing their mindset about their current home.

What She Found About Tulsa

One of the most interesting parts of the book is when Warnick talks about Tulsa, Oklahoma. She highlights how Tulsa has become a hotspot for remote workers thanks to the Tulsa Remote program, which pays people to move there and work remotely. The city has worked hard to attract new residents by offering a mix of affordability, cultural attractions, and a welcoming community. Warnick shows how Tulsa has successfully reinvented itself as a great place for people looking to relocate.

Two Downsides of the Book

While If You Could Live Anywhere is a great book with a lot of helpful insights, it does have a few drawbacks. One downside is that it can sometimes feel repetitive. Warnick shares a lot of different stories and research, but some of the same ideas come up multiple times. Readers who already know a lot about community engagement and remote work might find certain sections a bit slow.

Another issue is that the book is mostly written for people who have the luxury of choosing where they live. It’s a great guide for those who can afford to move and work remotely, but it doesn’t always address the challenges of people who don’t have as much flexibility due to financial reasons, family obligations, or other constraints. Some readers may find it frustrating that not everyone can just pick up and move to their dream location.

Final Thoughts

Overall, If You Could Live Anywhere is a thought-provoking book that helps readers rethink what makes a place feel like home. Warnick does a great job of blending research, real-life stories, and practical advice to help people make better decisions about where to live. She encourages readers to be intentional about their choices and to actively shape their communities, no matter where they are.

If you're considering a move or just want to appreciate your current hometown more, this book is worth reading. It reminds us that where we live shapes who we are, and that by getting involved and making connections, we can turn almost any place into the right place.

Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via email at dburton541@yahoo.com or visit his website at http://engagedneighbor.com.


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